45 Cozy Soups and One-Pot Meals That Make You Feel Glad You Didn’t Order Out

On days when energy is low, 45 cozy soups and one-pot meals can help you decide against spending money on delivery. Nothing beats the comfort of warm food that’s easy to assemble and doesn’t leave a mountain of dishes. Families and solo diners alike appreciate having a few reliable recipes at their fingertips.

A bowl of thick lentil and vegetable soup garnished with fresh herbs, featuring visible chunks of carrots and potatoes.
Mulligatawny Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Hearty Potato Soup

Close-up of a bowl of creamy soup topped with grilled bacon pieces and chopped parsley.
Hearty Potato Soup. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Layers of creamy comfort greet you with every spoonful of this Hearty Potato Soup. Even gray days feel warmer when the pot is bubbling on the stove. I serve big bowls whenever friends drop by unexpectedly. Everyone tends to scrape the bottom of the bowl for more.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Potato Soup

Beet Soup

A bowl of beet soup is garnished with a dollop of cream, black pepper, and fresh rosemary, with a gold spoon resting inside the bowl.
Beet Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Vivid color and earthy flavor combine for a memorable moment with this Beet Soup. Guests always seem surprised at how much they enjoy this one. I appreciate how it brightens up even the coldest dinner. Each bowl looks almost too pretty to eat.
Get the Recipe: Beet Soup

Split Pea Soup

A bowl of split pea soup with carrots, celery, and herbs, with a spoon resting inside the bowl.
Split Pea Soup. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Thick and full of smoky richness, this Split Pea Soup earns repeat requests as soon as winter hits. Silky texture pairs perfectly with a slice of bread for dunking. I enjoy scooping out big portions for lunch the next day. Hearty soups like this bring people together.
Get the Recipe: Split Pea Soup

Beef Chili

Two bowls of chili with kidney beans, meat, tortilla chips, shredded cheese, and cilantro. A black spoon in one bowl. Additional chili flakes in a small dish nearby.
Beef Chili. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Deep flavor and just a bit of heat give this Beef Chili its unforgettable character. Whether you go for spicy or mild, every bowl feels like comfort in a cup. I top mine with whatever I have handy for extra fun. The pot empties quickly when guests are around.
Get the Recipe: Beef Chili

Vegetable Soup

Close-up of a bowl of vegetable soup with spinach, peas, carrots, celery, and large beans, topped with grated cheese. A spoon rests in the bowl.
Vegetable Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Colorful veggies, light broth, and a bit of seasoning make this Vegetable Soup a balanced answer to busy days. Each ladle serves up something new and nourishing. I make extra for lunches since it keeps well in the fridge. Everyone loves the cheerful look on the table.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Soup

Ham and Potato Soup

A bowl of creamy chicken and vegetable soup with potatoes, corn, carrots, and fresh parsley, served with a metal spoon.
Ham and Potato Soup. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Creamy spoonfuls meet savory flavor in this Ham and Potato Soup. The aroma draws people in before the first taste. I find it warms up any winter night or a quick lunch. People come back hoping there’s a second batch.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Potato Soup

Turkey Soup

A bowl of chicken soup with rice, carrots, celery, herbs, and pepper sprinkled on top.
Turkey Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Simple broth and tender morsels define this Turkey Soup. The recipe gives leftovers a new purpose. I ladle generous servings for anyone in need of comfort. This is one meal that brings back memories of special occasions.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Soup

Corn Chowder

A close-up of a hearty potato and corn chowder with diced vegetables and a dollop of sour cream, garnished with fresh parsley.
Corn Chowder. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Creamy sweetness pairs with pops of corn in this Corn Chowder. It’s perfect for quick weeknight dinners, especially when you want comfort without much effort. I sometimes sprinkle in extra herbs on top. The chowder disappears before you know it.
Get the Recipe: Corn Chowder

Vegetable Beef Soup

A bowl of beef stew with chunks of meat, potatoes, carrots, and peas in a brown broth, garnished with chopped parsley.
Vegetable Beef Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Hearty bites of beef and plenty of veggies fill every spoonful in this Vegetable Beef Soup. Each bowl chases away the cold after a long day. I bring this out for family gatherings since it appeals to all ages. Leftover soup quickly becomes tomorrow’s best lunch.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Beef Soup

Gnocchi Soup

A bowl of creamy soup with gnocchi, spinach, carrots, celery, chunks of chicken, and black pepper, with a spoon inside.
Gnocchi Soup. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Soft, pillowy dumplings make this Gnocchi Soup a game-changer for cozy nights. The simple flavors stick with you. I add it to the menu when I need an easy meal with a little fun. This soup never seems to last for leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Gnocchi Soup

Chicken Noodle Soup

A bowl of chicken noodle soup with wide noodles, chunks of chicken, carrots, celery, and herbs in a clear broth.
Chicken Noodle Soup. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Slurping up noodles in a steamy bowl of this Chicken Noodle Soup is a tradition that never gets old. Each mouthful feels like instant relief after a long day. I deliver extra to friends whenever they need a lift. Everyone asks for a refill.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Noodle Soup

Turkey Chili

A close-up of a pot of chili with beans, avocado slices, red onion, sour cream, and garnished with chopped cilantro.
Turkey Chili. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Hearty beans and lean meat give this Turkey Chili a light but filling spin. Chilly evenings call for bowls piled high with toppings. I lean on this one for potlucks since it always vanishes first. Laughter seems to mix right in.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Chili

Hearty Tortellini Soup

A close-up of creamy tortellini with spinach and fresh basil leaves.
Hearty Tortellini Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Pillows of pasta floating in comforting broth make this Hearty Tortellini Soup unforgettable. Each bite gives you a little surprise. I ladle out generous servings when appetites run big. Guests often want the recipe after tasting it.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Tortellini Soup

Marry Me Chicken Soup

A creamy pasta dish with spinach, shredded chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and shell pasta, garnished with herbs.
Marry Me Chicken Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Creamy broth and herby aroma separate this Marry Me Chicken Soup from the usual weekday options. Its warmth wraps around you with every sip. I pull out this recipe when I want friends to feel extra welcome. The pot empties as quickly as it’s filled.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Soup

Italian Wedding Soup

Bowl of soup with meatballs, spinach, pasta, and vegetables in broth, topped with grated cheese and herbs.
Italian Wedding Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Tiny meatballs and green veggies show up in every bowl of this Italian Wedding Soup. The flavors balance lightness with comfort, never feeling heavy. I warm it up when only a meal with personality will do. Smiles always follow after the first taste.
Get the Recipe: Italian Wedding Soup

Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings

A bowl of Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings garnished with chopped parsley.
Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Soft, fluffy dumplings float in creamy broth in this Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings. Any night at home feels more comforting with a big pot on the stove. I’ve found leftovers disappear in no time. Some recipes just feel like a hug.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

Close-up of a bowl of creamy butternut squash soup garnished with herbs, seeds, and two slices of seasoned bread. The soup has a swirled texture and a vibrant orange color.
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Smooth texture and a bright hue turn this Roasted Butternut Squash Soup into a cold-weather classic. Each spoonful delivers a sweet note and hidden depth. I bring this out for festive dinners or when I need a splash of color. Guests are always shocked at how flavorful it turns out.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

Chicken Soup

A pot of soup with sliced carrots, potatoes, and herbs floating in a seasoned broth.
Chicken Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Gentle warmth fills the kitchen with every pot of this Chicken Soup. Sore days and stressful evenings find new hope after a bowl or two. I like sending some home with guests. Homemade comfort just doesn’t go out of style.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Soup

Roasted Tomato Soup

Close-up of a bowl of roasted tomato soup topped with toasted bread chunks, fresh thyme, and a sprinkle of black pepper.
Roasted Tomato Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Tangy tomato base and a silky finish give this Roasted Tomato Soup the power to convert even picky eaters. Comfort food can definitely be colorful. I reach for this recipe when grilled cheese needs a sidekick. Seeing bowls cleaned out is a highlight.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Tomato Soup

Clam Chowder

A bowl of creamy soup with clams, bacon, chopped green onions, and parsley, placed on a pink surface next to a spoon and some fresh herbs.
Clam Chowder. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Silky soup with chunks of clam gives this Clam Chowder its spot on the comfort food list. The flavor feels like a trip to the coast. I serve it with crackers for an easy meal. Anyone hoping for leftovers is usually out of luck.
Get the Recipe: Clam Chowder

Chicken Dumpling Soup

Close-up of creamy chicken and dumplings garnished with chopped parsley and black pepper.
Chicken Dumpling Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Fluffy dumplings bobbing in rich broth make this Chicken Dumpling Soup something special. Eating it feels like taking a pause from the world. I crave this recipe on snow days and rainy nights. Refills are the norm.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Dumpling Soup

Taco Soup

A bowl of red soup topped with avocado slices, sour cream, cilantro, sliced onions, corn, and shredded cheese.
Taco Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Bright flavors, meaty bites, and plenty of toppings make this Taco Soup a party in a bowl. Fast prep keeps the stress low. I offer bowls of chips, cheese, and salsa for extra fun. Empty bowls return before you know it.
Get the Recipe: Taco Soup

Leek and Potato Soup

A bowl of creamy soup garnished with sautéed green onions and herbs.
Leek and Potato Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Soft leeks and creamy potatoes blend in this Leek and Potato Soup. The subtle taste brings out comfort without leaving you feeling too full. I use this recipe when lighter fare is in order. Each spoonful is soothing.
Get the Recipe: Leek and Potato Soup

Chicken Noodle Casserole

Close-up of a chicken noodle casserole with a golden breadcrumb topping, garnished with chopped herbs.
Chicken Noodle Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

All the goodness of soup lands in a single pan with this Chicken Noodle Casserole. Baked pasta and creamy flavor win over picky eaters. I make it ahead for busy evenings. Hot from the oven, it draws everyone in.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Noodle Casserole

Cheeseburger Soup

A pot of cheesy potato and meat stew garnished with chopped parsley and crispy bacon.
Cheeseburger Soup. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Creaminess and savory bites combine in this Cheeseburger Soup for a dish that feels playful but still grown-up. The aroma hints at diner memories. I pass out bowls topped with crackers or croutons for crunch. Most guests don’t stop at one bowl.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Soup

White Bean Soup

A bowl of hearty white bean soup topped with melted cheese and a slice of toasted bread, garnished with fresh parsley.
White Bean Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Earthy flavors and a creamy finish help this White Bean Soup bring easy comfort to the weeknight table. The leftovers can be stretched into a quick lunch the next day. I ladle out seconds for anyone looking to warm up. Even non-bean fans often want more.
Get the Recipe: White Bean Soup

Chicken Pot Pie Soup

A pot of creamy vegetable and chicken soup with mushrooms, corn, peas, carrots, and herbs.
Chicken Pot Pie Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

All the coziness of your favorite pie transfers into this Chicken Pot Pie Soup without the fuss of crust. Warm chunks and creamy broth make every spoonful count. I reach for this recipe during colder months when dinner needs a boost. Empty bowls always signal approval.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie Soup

Mexican Spaghetti

A plate of spaghetti with tomato sauce, ground meat, chopped green onions, and parsley, served with a black fork.
Mexican Spaghetti. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Pasta night gets a lift from bold flavors in this Mexican Spaghetti. Each twirl has a little heat and a lot of comfort. I plate generous servings for anyone tired of the usual recipes. Colorful dinners like this keep things interesting.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Spaghetti

Egg Drop Soup

A comforting bowl of egg drop soup elegantly garnished with fresh cilantro, vibrant chives, and a sprinkle of chili flakes.
Egg Drop Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Wispy egg ribbons and gentle broth keep this Egg Drop Soup light yet comforting. Quick prep saves you when time is short. I love handing out steamy mugs during cold weather. Even kids ask for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Egg Drop Soup

Pea and Mint Soup

A bowl of creamy green pea soup garnished with mint leaves, black pepper, and pieces of crusty bread.
Pea and Mint Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Fresh herbs and sweet peas melt together nicely in this Pea and Mint Soup. The bright green color feels cheerful in any season. I offer small bowls as starters for dinner parties. Lively flavors and cheerful looks always spark curiosity.
Get the Recipe: Pea and Mint Soup

Lentil Soup

A hearty bowl of savory lentil soup, beautifully garnished with fresh cilantro, a swirl of cream, and an aromatic blend of spices.
Lentil Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Earthy lentils and simple spices come together for true comfort in this Lentil Soup. Every spoonful reminds you that easy food can still taste amazing. I store extra away for lunches since it holds up well. Nourishment never goes out of fashion.
Get the Recipe: Lentil Soup

Vegetarian Chili

Two bowls of chili with onions and sour cream.
Vegetarian Chili. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Beans, veggies, and robust flavor allow this Vegetarian Chili to stand strong all on its own. Meatless meals are anything but boring. I keep toppings close by for some creativity at serving time. No one misses the beef in this big-flavor soup.
Get the Recipe: Vegetarian Chili

Slow Cooker Italian Wedding Soup

A close-up of soup with meatballs, carrots, celery, spinach, slivered almonds, and fresh herbs in a clear broth.
Slow Cooker Italian Wedding Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Juicy little meatballs and swirls of pasta fill up the bowl in this Slow Cooker Italian Wedding Soup. The slow cooker makes prep nearly effortless. I love greeting guests with the scent floating through the house. Smiling faces are the best review.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Italian Wedding Soup

Sweet Potato Soup

A bowl of sweet potato soup with bread next to it.
Sweet Potato Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Silky, sweet, and deeply comforting, this Sweet Potato Soup always brings warmth to the table. Its bright orange color lights up gray days. I dish out extra for anyone feeling under the weather. The soup goes quickly, no matter how big the batch.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Soup

Mushroom Soup

Mushroom soup that's delightfully creamy, adorned with sautéed mushrooms, a dollop of cream, red pepper flakes, and a sprinkle of parsley.
Mushroom Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Gentle woodsiness and creaminess tag-team in this Mushroom Soup. Its simple, clean taste works for everyone. I ladle bowls for light dinners or pair them with sandwiches. The aroma means you’ll want to dig in right away.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Soup

Lamb Stew

Close-up of beef stew with tomatoes and herbs served over mashed potatoes, garnished with parsley. A fork and spoon rest on the plate.
Lamb Stew. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Rich, slow-cooked broth and fork-tender chunks create a sense of old-fashioned coziness in this Lamb Stew. Deep flavors come out best after hours together in the pot. I serve it up when only the heartiest meal will do. The stew becomes the star of the night.
Get the Recipe: Lamb Stew

Creamy, Cheesy Broccoli Soup

A close-up of a bowl of broccoli cheddar soup garnished with croutons, a sprig of mint, and grated cheese.
Creamy, Cheesy Broccoli Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Velvety cheese blends with green broccoli in this Creamy, Cheesy Broccoli Soup for comforting results. It’s easy to sneak seconds without any guilt. I let bowls cool just enough before pass-outs begin. Even those iffy about broccoli change their minds.
Get the Recipe: Creamy, Cheesy Broccoli Soup

Ham and Split Pea Soup

A bowl of split pea soup with chunks of ham, diced carrots, and herbs, with a spoon resting inside.
Ham and Split Pea Soup. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Smoky, tender meat mixes with thick broth in this Ham and Split Pea Soup. A single pot covers dinner and tomorrow’s lunch. I save extra for busy days when quick comfort is a must. Requests for the recipe always follow.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Split Pea Soup

Spicy Lasagna Soup

Close-up of a plate of pasta topped with a red tomato-based sauce, grated cheese, and garnished with chopped parsley.
Spicy Lasagna Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Plenty of pasta, bold tomato, and a spicy kick turn this Spicy Lasagna Soup into a weeknight hero. Slurping is polite here. I serve it with a dusting of cheese and watch faces light up. Leftovers only improve by the next meal.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Lasagna Soup

Beef Stew

A close-up of a beef stew with green peas and chopped parsley, showing a spoon partially submerged in the rich, red sauce.
Beef Stew. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Mouthwatering gravy and beef so tender it falls apart bring depth to this Beef Stew. The pot simmers away quietly in the background. I ladle out portions for appetites big and small. Most agree it tastes even better reheated.
Get the Recipe: Beef Stew

Ham and Bean Soup

A bowl of white bean soup with pieces of ham, garnished with chopped parsley, and a spoon resting in the bowl.
Ham and Bean Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Savory bites and soft beans deliver satisfaction with each bowl of this Ham and Bean Soup. The recipe works year-round but feels especially welcome when it’s chilly outside. I tuck away single servings for quick lunches. People always seem surprised by how filling it is.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Bean Soup

Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

A close-up of a spoonful of chicken stuffing, showcasing croutons, shredded chicken, peas, carrots, and sprinkled herbs.
Chicken and Stuffing Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Comfort layers stack up beautifully in this Chicken and Stuffing Casserole. It smells just like fall holidays and chilly nights. I fix two pans when appetites run high. Fewer leftovers make cleaning up much easier.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Chunky Minestrone Soup

A bowl of hearty minestrone soup packed with green beans, pasta, zucchini, tomatoes, and herbs, served with crusty bread slices.
Chunky Minestrone Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Beans, pasta, and garden veggies give this Chunky Minestrone Soup color and depth. Every scoop seems to bring something different to the spoon. I pour extra into jars for grab-and-go meals. Anyone who loves variety in dinner goes back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Chunky Minestrone Soup

White Chicken Chili

A bowl of creamy White Chicken Chili with chunks of chicken, sliced avocado, green jalapeño peppers, white beans, and fresh cilantro.
White Chicken Chili. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Creamy, mild, and filled with hearty bites, this White Chicken Chili balances comfort and subtle spice. Toppings give each bowl a fun twist. I lean on this for crowd-pleasing dinners in winter. People often compliment the gentle heat.
Get the Recipe: White Chicken Chili

Mulligatawny Soup

A bowl of thick lentil and vegetable soup garnished with fresh herbs, featuring visible chunks of carrots and potatoes.
Mulligatawny Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Subtle curry and a blend of textures fill out this Mulligatawny Soup. Every slurp feels just a bit exotic but reassuring at the same time. I ladle it up for anyone ready to try something new. Cheerful table talk follows the first bites.
Get the Recipe: Mulligatawny Soup

About the Author
A woman with long brown hair is smiling and standing with her arms crossed. She is wearing a sleeveless, black and white diamond-patterned dress.

Hey there! I’m Mandy

Mandy Applegate is a home cook, food blogger, and writer who believes the best meals are the ones shared with the people you love.

She’s all about easy recipes that taste amazing, the kind that make ordinary days feel a little more special and remind you why cooking at home matters.

She has been published on NBC, the Daily News, the Boston Herald, and the Chicago Sun-Times, amongst many others.

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